STAFF from borough hospitals who attended a long service awards bash have notched up more than 500 years of service between them.

The celebrations shone the spotlight on staff who have reached key milestones in their years of service for The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, ranging from 15 to 40 years.

For the first time - the ceremony also celebrated the long service of hard-working volunteers who were presented with certificates and badges by chief executive Paula Clark and chairman John Edwards. Those who attended were also treated to celebratory tea and cake.

Ms Clark said: “It’s really important to me that we are able to recognise the incredible commitment our long serving members of staff have made over the years, both to the organisation and to the Dudley community as a whole.”

Nicola Bussey, who celebrated 40 years with the Trust, said: “It’s amazing to think that when I started out I used a typewriter and everything was paper based, now consultants can sit at their desks and see X-rays taken minutes ago on their computer screens.”

Pam Boucher, one of the Trust’s first volunteers to receive a long service award, said since becoming a volunteer in 1999 she has enjoyed every minute.

She added: “I’ve made so many good friends over the years and I’ve really enjoyed volunteering, but it’s lovely to know you are appreciated and have your work celebrated like this."

Trust chairman John Edwards said the Trust board owed the dedicated staff a "debt of gratitude and thanks" for years of hard work.